1963 - Chevrolet Corvette

"Asteroid"

Specifications

Built by: Bob Nordskog, Don Ferrara, and George Barris of Barris Kustoms

Configuration: Longitudinal front engine

Engine: V8

Displacement: 5.77L/352 cu. in.

Horsepower: 400 at 6,500 RPM

Torque: 430 ft/lbs

Max RPM: 6,500 RPM

Transmission: 4-speed manual

A Little History

This second-generation Corvette, also known as a Corvette Sting Ray, was originally purchased in 1962 by Bob Nordskog. Nordskog was a mechanical engineer by trade, and a renowned mid-century speed boat racer later in life. When the second generation Corvettes came out, Nordskog immediately ordered a Stingray in primer only, and the car was then delivered to Barris Kustoms to get custom body work by legendary auto customizer George Barris himself. Barris created the original body and copper color scheme of the Asteroid, but after a couple years, Nordskog had it repainted to match his fleet of race boats. The Asteroid won the top awards for a show car at the 1963 Long Beach Motorama and the 1963 Mickey Thompson Auto, Boat & Speed Show. And was widely published in custom and hot rod magazines of the time.